Lime Marmalade: A Tangy, Sweet Citrus Delight

Lime marmalade is a refreshing twist on traditional marmalade, combining the tartness of lime with the sweetness of sugar to create a bright and flavorful spread. This homemade version is easy to make and perfect for slathering on toast, adding to baked goods, or using as a topping for desserts. The balance of lime juice and zest provides a vibrant, citrusy kick, while the addition of lemon juice helps enhance the overall flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, Tangy Flavor: The zesty lime and lemon provide a refreshing citrus punch that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the sugar.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few basic ingredients, this marmalade comes together quickly and easily.
• Homemade Goodness: Skip the store-bought version and make your own marmalade with fresh ingredients and love.
• Versatile: Use it on toast, as a topping for desserts, or even mix it into yogurt for a burst of citrus flavor.

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Ingredients

(Tip: Find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons lime zest (make sure to avoid the bitter pith)
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 packet powdered pectin (or as instructed on packaging)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the limes:
Thoroughly wash the limes. Zest them carefully, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath the skin. Then slice the limes in half and juice them, removing any seeds. You should have about 1 cup of lime juice.

2. Combine ingredients in a pot:
In a large pot, combine the lime juice, lime zest, water, lemon juice, granulated sugar, and pectin. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

3. Bring to a boil:
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.

4. Simmer the marmalade:
Let the mixture simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The marmalade should thicken as it simmers, reaching your desired consistency.

5. Test for doneness:
To test if the marmalade is ready, place a spoonful of the mixture on a cold plate. Let it sit for a moment, then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes.

6. Cool slightly:
Once the marmalade has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

7. Jar the marmalade:
Ladle the marmalade into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top. Seal the jars and let them cool completely.

8. Store and enjoy:
Once fully cooled, store the marmalade in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several weeks, and if properly sealed, it can be stored for even longer.

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Servings and Timing:

• Servings: About 3-4 jars (depending on size)
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Total time: 1.5 hours

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Storage:

• Storage: Store the marmalade in sealed jars at room temperature until opened. Once opened, keep the jars in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezing: You can freeze this marmalade in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to use.

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Variations:

• Add ginger: Stir in a small amount of grated fresh ginger for a warm, spicy kick.
• Citrus mix: Combine lime with orange or grapefruit juice for a unique citrus blend.
• Spicy marmalade: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced fresh chili to give the marmalade a subtle heat.

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FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice will yield the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can be substituted.

Why do I need pectin?
Pectin helps the marmalade set and thicken. If you prefer a looser consistency, you can reduce or omit the pectin, but it may take longer to reach the right texture.

Do I need to sterilize the jars?
Yes, sterilizing your jars is essential to ensure that your marmalade stays safe and fresh. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher cycle.

How can I adjust the sweetness?
You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste, but reducing it too much may affect the marmalade’s consistency. Consider using less sugar or a sugar substitute if desired.

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Conclusion

This Lime Marmalade is the perfect way to bring a burst of citrus to your mornings or desserts. The tangy lime flavor paired with the sweetness of sugar and a hint of lemon makes for a truly delightful spread. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this homemade marmalade will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful, it’s a treat that brightens up any day.

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